Best Alternative Outfits to a Summer Dress

Get some inspiration from us and find the ideal alternative summer outfits for you…

With summer finally on its way, you’re probably already stacking up your shelves with summer clothes. The weather is turning slowly but surely, meaning everyone is on the hunt for their next summer outfit or holiday pieces. The summer dress is bound to become a hit everywhere you look, from floating maxi dress designs to mini dresses perfect for tackling the heat. The styles for this season include stripe shirt dresses, mini dresses with lace inserts and printed skater dresses. Giving you ample choice for your collection, summer dresses are no doubt a go-to style for the upcoming months. However, your favourite dresses can sometimes overshadow other great designs that are perfect for summer. After all, there’s so much more to women’s fashion than a beautiful dress (although it’s definitely a good place to start!). This why we’ve put together some inspiration for the best alternative summer outfits…

Floral playsuits

A playsuitis the closest you’ll get to wearing a dress without actually wearing one and is a first on our list of alternative summer outfits. Playsuits offer a flattering design that are a little more fun and practical, making them perfect for drinks in the sun, a walk along the beach or even something a little more adventurous!

Choosing a floral pattern is perfect for the summer season, offering a unique style amongst the different dresses on offer. Whether it’s a sunflower print, bold colours or cold shoulders, playsuits offer an alternate take on SS18’s best trends. Providing just as much style as a dress, but with an attractive and complimentary design, make sure playsuits are lined up on your shelves this season.

The jumpsuit is a classic combination of power dressing and femininity. Making a statement, jumpsuits naturally command attention thanks to their striking appearance. This season, choose a striped jumpsuit to really make an impact while providing as much style as a summer dress.

With pastel colours on offer like blue and peach alongside bold shades of orange and even black, the jumpsuit is a perfect way to add something unique to your collection. Vertical stripes are naturally flattering, with a choice of full length or culotte legs to add extra flair. Details such as cut-out sections, lace inserts or split legs can transform a standard jumpsuit into something special for the summer, making sure you have something beautifully different to show off.

Lace detail co-ords

Co-ord sets became popular a few years ago and have been around ever since. They are a very versatile style and simply consist of two matching pieces; usually a top with either shorts, trousers or a skirt. A unique style, they are the perfect alternative to the usual dress.

Adding a lace co-ord to your collection offers a feminine, flirty side to your existing collection. Showing a little more skin than a dress, co-ords are great for holidaying in or a night out on the town. Lace is in keeping with the top trends of SS18; stick to classic white for a timeless look.

No longer does your short wardrobe have to consist of just a pair of denim cut-offs. While these are undoubtedly a great summer staple, there are now so many designs of shorts, you can craft a whole range of fab outfits for them. Swap your summer outfit for a pair of floaty lace shorts and a top or a slick pair of culottes – the choices are endless!

eyecatching skirts

In terms of alternative summer outfits, if you still want to look feminine but want to be able to mix and match a bit more than you can with a dress, invest in a new skirt. There are a whole host of designs – bodycon, A-Line, asymmetrical, bubble, draped, flared, gypsy… the list goes on! Choose an eyecatching pattern, bold colour or floral design and pair with a simple white tee or shirt for the most impactful finish.

What alternative to a summer dress will you be wearing? Let us know about your favourite alternative summer outfits by commenting in the below below…

Hi! My name is Mark Lee-Falcon and I am a partner and deputy editor for Seen in the City. Fitness is one of my main passions and I love discovering new workouts. I also love exploring the city and finding the coolest new places to eat and drink. You can contact me on: Mark@seeninthecity.co.uk

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